About the Commission

Role of the Public Service Commission

The Public Service Commission (PSC) is an arm’s length agency tasked with the principle statutory role of promotion and protection of merit in public service hiring and in appointments to agencies, boards and commissions (ABCs). It is responsible for ensuring the existence of a professional, non-partisan public service including ABCs. In addition, the PSC is responsible for the Employee Assistance and Respectful Workplace Programs; employee safety and wellness initiatives; administration of classification appeals; corporate-wide learning, development and training; leading and supporting the Conflict of Interest Advisory Committee; and administering the Harassment-Free Workplace Program for public service employees. The integrity and impartiality of these programs is enhanced by the neutral and independent nature and reputation of the PSC.

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Mandate

The mandate of the PSC is provided by its governing legislation, the Public Service Commission Act (PSC Act). The core mandate is the protection of merit. Merit is a rule of conduct that provides for the recommendation of candidates for a position on the basis of the best demonstration of bona fide levels of required qualifications, knowledge, abilities and personal suitability. One of the primary responsibilities of the PSC is the recommendation of candidates for appointment or promotion to positions within those organizations scheduled to the PSC Act and as well, provincial ABCs that are also scheduled to that Act.

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Merit Principles

Merit in staffing is achieved through practices that are seen to be fair, equitable and transparent.

Fairness means decisions are made objectively, free from bias, patronage or nepotism. Practices reflect the just treatment of all employees and applicants. Equity means equal access to employment opportunities. Practices are free from systemic and attitudinal barriers and duly consider “reasonable accommodations”.

Transparency means open communication, without jeopardizing rational confidentiality, between managers and employees or applicants about staffing, its practices and decisions.

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Vision

Public Service Excellence through merit, fairness and respect. As an independent and arm’s length agency committed to the principles of merit, the PSC will lead, guide and build a professional public service that is inclusive, diverse, respectful and skilled, and will support a healthy and safe workforce.

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Values

Core Values Strategic Value Action Statements
Fairness All employees conduct their work objectively and free from influence and bias and are supportive of the diversity of our clients.
Respect All employees treat clients in a just manner and accept responsibility for their work obligations and contributions.
Professionalism All employees strive towards service excellence and continuing professional development, utilizing their unique competencies to advance the vision of the organization.

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